Bursting of only green crackers allowed for just 2 hours during Diwali in Assam: PCB

Oct. 23: Only green crackers can be sold in the State, and bursting is allowed only for two hours during Diwali, that is from 8 pm to 10 pm. Meanwhile, during Chhath Puja, bursting firecrackers will be allowed from 6 AM to 8 AM, and during Christmas and New year’s eve from 11.55 PM to 12.30 AM. This was stated in an order which was passed by the Pollution Control Board (PCB) of Assam on 22 of October.

The order stated that only Green crackers are to be used for the upcoming festivals, including Diwali. The guidelines published by the pollution control board stated that there will be a complete ban on selling and bursting of any traditional firecrackers except green crackers until further notice. The Board also specified that apart from the time stipulated for bursting green crackers on Diwali, Chhath and Christmas, further permission should be taken if any sort of crackers would be used on any occasion from the Deputy Commissioners of the concerned districts.

The decision has been made in compliance with the directions of the National Green Tribunal. The District Magistrates, Commissioners, and Superintendents of Police will be responsible to implement the aforesaid directions. National Green Tribunal has specified that harmful pollutants emitted from firecrackers results in severe impact on respiratory system. Such pollutants can result in further deterioration of the patients infected by coronavirus.